DPWH repairs quake-damaged roads, bridges

MANILA, Philippines – Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson reported yesterday that they were able to repair the roads and bridges along the Dumaguete North Road (DNR) within nine days, as mandated by President Aquino.

Aquino set the Feb. 15 deadline after conducting an inspection last week to assess the damage caused by the 6.9 magnitude earthquake in Negros Oriental.

“Yes. We are able to open access to the isolated municipality of La Libertad, Guihulngan (City), and (the town of) Jimalalud,” Singson said.

DPWH Undersecretary for Regional Operations Romeo Momo said a total of 20 bridges along the DNR affected by the earthquake had all been interconnected using Bailey bridges and alternate routes as of Sunday.

“Out of the 20 bridges, six of them sustained major defects while the remaining 14 bridges only sustained minor defects, which were all immediately repaired,” Momo said.

Five of the six bridges found with major problems have been installed with “dismountable” Bailey bridges and can now be utilized by heavy and light vehicles. the Pangaloan Bridge remains under construction.